Maintenant 10: A Journal of Contemporary Dada Writing and Art

Maintenant 10: A Journal of Contemporary Dada Writing & Art celebrates the hundredth anniversary of Dada. This artistic movement was in reaction to the absurdities of life, a protest against war, and a chance to be silly if possible when breaking past the cerebral requirements of expression. The art movement has since survived a hundred years. Editors Peter Carlaftes and Kat Georges have brought together more than one-hundred and fifty artists to contribute a piece of art or poem. Most have only used one page, but there are a few longer entries. There are also some inspiring quotes from some of founding figures in this movement.

One will find here a plethora of images. Some startle and shock. Some inspire. Though people expect Dada to be silly, and sometimes it is here, it is also often political and usually poignant. The images take all forms, with the collages being the most complicated ones. The poems also provide messages, both political and artistic, that are food for thought. There is great art here for people who prefer expression rather than articulation. There are great poems for those who like to dwell on them or want puzzles. Symbols and buttons pushed are provided. It’s quite a smorgasbord for those who are sick and tired of it, and those who don’t necessarily want to have to make obvious sense when they react to life.